Fontinalis antipyretica

Willow Moss, Water Moss, Greater Water-Moss, Antifever Moss

Easy careAquaticNon-toxic5–60 cm

A fully submerged aquatic moss found in cold, clear streams across Europe, Asia, and North America. Its slender, branching stems carry small, lance-shaped leaves that drape in flowing water — much like the branches of a willow, which is how it earned its common name. It does best in cool water between 4 and 16 °C with low to moderate light, making it a natural choice for the aquatic sections of paludariums and riparian setups. In the wild it anchors to rocks and submerged wood; in an enclosure it will attach to similar surfaces given a few weeks.

Build a terrarium with this plant
Willow Moss image

Care

Prefers very high humidity, low light, with 4–22 °C, and reaches 60 cm at maturity.

Light

Shade tolerant(preferred)Indirect light

Humidity

Very high (80%+)(preferred)

Temperature

0°C20°C40°C
4°C – 22°C

Soil

Rocky(preferred)

Moisture

Wet(preferred)

Soil pH

5 – 8

Propagation

Separate clumps into smaller portions and attach to rocks, driftwood, or other hardscape using fishing line or aquarium-safe adhesive. Allow 2–4 weeks for fragments to anchor and begin new growth before disturbing.

Frequently asked

Can Willow Moss grow in a closed terrarium?

Yes. Willow Moss prefers very high (above 80%) humidity, which is what a closed terrarium provides, and tolerates shade-tolerant conditions.

Does Willow Moss need drainage?

Willow Moss prefers a wet substrate. Drainage is helpful but not critical; consistent moisture matters more.

What humidity does Willow Moss need?

Willow Moss does best in very high (above 80%) humidity.

Is Willow Moss pet-safe?

Willow Moss is considered non-toxic to common household pets.

How tall does Willow Moss grow?

Willow Moss typically reaches 5–60 cm at maturity.

How do you propagate Willow Moss?

Willow Moss can be propagated by division or runners.

References

  1. 1

    Pond Informer — Willow Moss (Fontinalis antipyretica) Care Guide

    https://pondinformer.com/willow-moss-fontinalis-antipyretica/
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    Bantam Earth — Willow Moss Vivarium Care Guide

    https://bantam.earth/willow-moss-fontinalis-antipyretica/
  4. 4
  5. 5

    GBIF — Fontinalis antipyretica Hedw.

    https://www.gbif.org/species/180048909
  6. 6